A representative from the Myanmar Overseas Employment Agencies Federation (MOEAF) affirmed that both male and female workers are routinely dispatched to Korea without any temporary suspensions.

"The current suspension doesn't pertain to EPS. EPS facilitates new demand letters for both genders. The ban currently affects only private agencies. However, the government-to-government channel with Korea accepts both male and female workers," clarified the official.

The Ministry of Labour announced to the media that the issuance of departure permits for male Myanmar workers has been temporarily halted since May 1. This measure aims to ensure thorough verification of relevant documents and consideration of other factors.

On May 7, the ministry resumed accepting some demand letters for male workers who had been temporarily suspended for foreign jobs, as reported by the foreign employment agency community. Nonetheless, demand letters for workers aged 23 to 31 intending to work abroad are yet to be accepted, according to sources within the foreign employment agency community.

An MOEAF representative warned that due to the restrictions on foreign employment, there could be an increase in illegal migration for work.

"Many individuals were already leaving the country illegally, and the situation has worsened. Without new recruits, individuals might feel trapped, leading to an increase in illegal migration," commented the MOEAF official.

This year, a total of 74,000 people have applied for the 16th North Korean Proficiency Test (EPS-TOPIK), more than double the number in 2023.

A test taker noted, "This year marks a record high. Last year, only slightly over 30,000 took the tests for jobs in manufacturing, construction, and agriculture/livestock breeding. This year, with over 70,000 applicants, the competition has intensified. Passing won't be easy, especially with the addition of the basic skills test. I'm determined to put in my best effort to succeed."

Myanmar is home to over 500 foreign employment agencies, with many Myanmar workers seeking opportunities in neighboring Thailand, as well as in Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, and Korea.

According to Ministry of Labour data, over 160,000 Myanmar citizens went to work in foreign countries during an 11-month period. From April of the previous year to the end of February of the current year, 167,926 workers were sent to foreign countries by 440 officially licensed foreign employment agencies.

These countries include Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Korea, and Turkey. The Ministry of Labour reported that the average monthly outflow was around 15,000 workers during the first eight months of the previous year, increasing to about 19,000 in January and February of the current year.